Locked On Hornets - Daily Podcast On The Charlotte Hornets

The Lakers collapse in five games and Hornets fans are loving it—especially Mark Williams. We break down the ripple effects of LA backing out of the Mark Williams trade and weigh whether the Hornets should take Tre Johnson as high as 3. On this episode of Locked On Hornets, Walker, Doug, and guest Nata Edwards take a victory lap around the Lakers' early playoff exit and zero in on what could've been if LA had followed through on acquiring Mark Williams. The crew reacts to Williams’ not-so-subtle social media jabs and asks how much damage the Lakers really did to his reputation by pulling out of the deal. The conversation shifts to the potential impact Williams might have had in the Lakers’ frontcourt and whether his post-deadline stats suggest LA made a critical mistake. Then it’s time to get spicy—would YOU trade the number one pick and multiple assets for Giannis? The Hornets’ hypothetical decision between Cooper Flagg’s upside and Giannis’ current dominance splits the panel and the fanbase. Plus, we dive into mock draft chatter: Doug reveals Charlotte’s position after another draft simulator run and discusses Tre Johnson’s meteoric rise on big boards. What makes Johnson such a fit for the Hornets, and could he leapfrog others to be the #3 pick? Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one. For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use code LOCKEDONNBA. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Upwork Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s...

On today’s Locked On Hornets, the Sicko Satchel delivers one of the biggest what-if scenarios in franchise history—what if the Hornets get the No. 1 pick... and trade it for Giannis Antetokounmpo? Doug and Walker dive into the trade mechanics, the pros, the culture questions, and what Milwaukee would demand in return. Would Cooper Flagg’s potential outweigh the chance to compete right now with a generational superstar? Plus, it’s Moussa Diabate appreciation day. The guys hand out flowers to the Hornets' two-way success story, detailing how Diabate became the literal heart of the team—leading the roster in games played, wreaking havoc on the boards, and forcing accountability on the practice court. Could he still be part of the team’s long-term rotation? Finally, Doug breaks news from Gary Parrish’s latest mock draft, where the Hornets are linked to Trey Johnson out of Texas. Why Tre’s shooting numbers make him a perfect fit in Charlotte, and what it says about the team’s direction heading into draft season. All that, plus a farewell to the Locked On newsletter (kind of), and more signature Hornets sicko analysis. Don’t miss it! Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one. For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use code LOCKEDONNBA. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Upwork Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here:...

NBA East Squad: Bucks playoffs on life support, Giannis' Future in DOUBT? This episode of the Locked On NBA Squad Show East hosts discuss the impact of Damian Lillard's Achilles injury on the Milwaukee Bucks' playoff hopes and future. They analyze the Bucks' roster challenges, potential trade scenarios involving Giannis Antetokounmpo, and the implications for Lillard's career. The conversation shifts to the ongoing Knicks-Pistons series, highlighting Cade Cunningham's leadership and the Pistons' surprising competitiveness. The hosts also touch on the ripple effects of the Luka Doncic trade, demonstrating how it continues to influence NBA discussions across various contexts. 0:00 Intro: Damian Lillard injury impacts Bucks 5:49 Pistons impress despite calls against Knicks 13:09 Bucks' bleak future without Lillard 19:21 Debate over controversial no-call ending 26:51 Luka trade still reverberating around NBA Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 5-Hour ENERGY Head to 5-hourENERGY.com to find over 15 flavors to choose from, including Watermelon, Blue Raspberry, and Peach-Mango. Need one now? Grab a 5-hour ENERGY shot at your local grocery or convenience store—they’re everywhere! Stock up today and stay energized. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The offseason tradition continues! On today's episode of Locked On Hornets, we kick off our player capsule series by taking a hard look at Tidjane Salaun's rookie campaign. From unexpected minutes to moments of raw promise, we unpack the good, the bad, and what Salaun needs to work on this summer to carve out a bigger role in the Hornets' future. Walker and Doug discuss why his stats might not tell the whole story and highlight the key areas where Salaun showed encouraging flashes, especially defensively. Plus, how does his rookie shooting compare to other first-year players? We set the context you need. Then, we shift gears to the NBA Draft conversation: Jeremiah Fears is surging up big boards, but is he a good fit for the Hornets if they fall out of the top spots? Doug spins the Tankathon wheel, and the guys analyze what a potential pick like Fears could mean for LaMelo Ball’s future fit in Charlotte. It’s full player development talk, draft buzz, and a lot of Hornets hope on today’s Locked On Hornets! Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one. For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use code LOCKEDONNBA. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Upwork Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com...

In this episode of Locked On Hornets, we break down the results of our end-of-season Stat Draft. Who came out on top? Who took the wildest swings? Doug, David, and Walker reveal their hits and misses—from Brandon Miller’s breakout to LaMelo Ball’s up-and-down shooting and Miles Bridges’ unexpected scoring dip. Walker and Doug revisit the bold predictions made earlier in the year and how they panned out statistically, with some surprising wins and razor-thin margins that shifted the standings. LaMelo’s turnover rate drops, but can we trust the reasons behind it? Doug makes the case for LaMelo’s floaters while lamenting the lack of rim pressure and missed opportunities to finish. We also discuss Mark Williams’ modest progress, the reality behind Josh Green’s limited playmaking, and how injuries shaped the season and the draft picks. Plus, Kemba Walker is back! The former Hornets legend is suiting up for the BIG3, and we talk nostalgia, expectations, and how his legacy continues in Charlotte. And finally, we react to the No Ceilings mock draft, which has the Hornets taking Ace Bailey at #3. Are his flaws too glaring to ignore, or is his upside worth the risk? We give our takes. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one. For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use code LOCKEDONNBA. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Upwork Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your...

In this episode of Locked On Hornets, we’re joined by Nada Edwards from the Eye on College Basketball podcast to break down Cooper Flagg’s official declaration for the NBA draft — and what the Hornets should do if they don’t land the top pick. Is Dylan Harper a legit Plan B? Nada thinks so, and we go deep on how his coachability and two-way potential could reshape Charlotte’s timeline — even if Cooper is off the board. We also explore the growing debate between Ace Bailey and VJ Edgecombe and whether either could truly complement LaMelo Ball. Could Charlotte pivot to a trade-back strategy if they fall in the draft? We weigh the risks and possible return. Then, we shift gears and ask: which current Hornets could actually thrive in the playoffs' more physical style? From Grant Williams’ grit to Brandon Miller’s mental edge, we sort the soft from the sturdy. Plus, an NFL Draft comparison segment sparks debate about falling prospects — both on the gridiron and the hardwood. Whether it’s Harper’s upside, Ace’s question marks, or the team’s readiness for playoff pressure, this episode hits everything on Hornets fans' minds right now. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one. For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use code LOCKEDONNBA. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Upwork Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here:...

In this episode of Locked On Hornets, Doug Branson and Walker Mehl react to The Athletic's annual anonymous NBA player poll that put the Charlotte Hornets at the bottom of the league — literally. A staggering 38% of polled players voted the Hornets as the NBA’s worst organization, and the guys break down why this franchise continues to carry a stink that no regime change has yet washed away. They dig into the lasting damage of past ownership, the fresh start under Gabe Plotkin, Rick Schnall and Jeff Peterson, and what it'll take to climb out of the cellar. Plus, Charles Lee is already catching strays despite only coaching a single season. Is it fair? Or just lazy polling by players picking the easiest scapegoat? Doug and Walker debate the real implications. LaMelo Ball also gets a curious amount of respect (or is it neglect?) from fellow players, showing up nowhere near the “most overrated” list. And despite a 19-win season, the Hornets still found a way to break a franchise record in 3-point attempts. The guys unpack what that stat says about Charles Lee's system and whether it's a glimpse of a more modern Hornets offense or just more chaos. All that, plus a quick mock draft featuring a little lottery luck and the Cooper Flagg hype machine is in full gear. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one. For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use code LOCKEDONNBA. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Upwork Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup!...

NBA East Squad: Which East Teams Should Feel Best & Worst After Opening Weekend? In this episode of Locked On NBA Squad Show East, hosts dissect the opening weekend of the NBA playoffs, debating which teams should feel most confident and concerned. The panel analyzes key matchups, including the Pacers-Bucks and Knicks-Pistons series, discussing player performances and strategic adjustments. They explore the importance of Game 2 for various teams, particularly focusing on the Pistons' response against the Knicks. The hosts also delve into specific team adjustments, such as the Celtics' need for better ball movement and the Heat's potential lineup changes. 0:00 Intro: Which teams feel best after playoffs? 6:16 Pacers vs Bucks: Surprising Game 1 result 13:55 Heat struggle against Cavs' defense 21:13 Most important Game 2: Pistons vs Knicks 27:46 Celtics and Magic: Adjustments for Game 2 Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 5-Hour ENERGY Head to 5-hourENERGY.com to find over 15 flavors to choose from, including Watermelon, Blue Raspberry, and Peach-Mango. Need one now? Grab a 5-hour ENERGY shot at your local grocery or convenience store—they’re everywhere! Stock up today and stay energized. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Hornets are one step closer to a franchise-altering pick as Cooper Flagg officially declares for the 2025 NBA Draft. On today's Locked On Hornets, Doug Branson and Walker Mehl react to the big announcement and what it could mean for Charlotte, especially with multiple lottery simulations projecting Flagg in purple and teal. The guys break down how Flagg's game fits into the current roster and why his presence could relieve pressure from Brandon Miller and LaMelo Ball. But it's not all about draft dreams. The conversation shifts to how the Hornets should build a playoff-caliber team in the short term. Is it through trades? Draft? Free agency? Doug makes the case for the trade market as the most immediate path to relevance—while using Detroit and OKC as real-world case studies. Plus, a spicy discussion about whether new coach Charles Lee has the "crazy" gene necessary to win in today’s NBA. This episode is loaded with insights, laughs, and long-term Hornets optimism. Subscribe and join the discussion! Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one. For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use code LOCKEDONNBA. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Upwork Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for...

In this episode of Locked On Hornets, Walker and Doug react to insightful offseason comments from new Hornets coach Charles Lee about LaMelo Ball’s development. Lee emphasized the importance of strength and durability to handle playoff-level physicality, especially with LaMelo’s inconsistent rim pressure and finishing. The guys break down how LaMelo’s offseason may be less about shots and more about squats. Then it’s time to talk Tre Mann. After an electric start in Charlotte, Mann’s season abruptly ended with little clarity. No exit interview, no rehab update, and no media presence — just a vague tweet about “postseason hoops in Charlotte” that could just as easily reference his brother at Queens University. So what gives? Doug and Walker dive into the financial implications of keeping Mann, from his $14.7M cap hold to a possible 3-year, $33M extension. Is Charlotte ready to commit to a player with such a small but promising sample size? And finally, the guys hit the mock draft board, where Ace Bailey, Max Reynaud, and Boogie Fland headline a potentially international-heavy haul for the Hornets. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one. For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use code LOCKEDONNBA. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Upwork Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Monarch...

Even with the Hornets on the outside looking in, this episode dives into why Charlotte fans have a huge stake in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Doug and Walker break down how a Miami Heat loss could drastically improve the value of a 2028 unprotected first-round pick—a crucial piece in the Hornets’ war chest. That leads into a fascinating “What if?” discussion around Memphis potentially blowing it up and whether Jaren Jackson Jr. should be Charlotte’s big swing. Is it worth giving up 4-5 picks for a chance to pair LaMelo with an elite shot blocker and stretch big? Doug says yes. Walker weighs both sides. Meanwhile, the guys pump the brakes on Domantas Sabonis, citing his playoff struggles and defensive liabilities despite being an offensive machine. Plus, they show major love to Charles Lee after veteran testimonials paint the head coach as a strong communicator and game strategist. And yes—there’s another mock draft on the books for Day 20. This is a must-listen if you're looking to understand the Hornets’ asset strategy, draft-day moves, or just want to hear a passionate argument about why we’re all Hawks fans (for one night only). Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one. For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use code LOCKEDONNBA. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Upwork Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here:...

On this episode of Locked On Hornets, Walker, Doug, and special guest Nata Edwards of the Eye On College Basketball podcast break down the most controversial comments from Hornets exit day—including Miles Bridges’ eyebrow-raising offseason confession. Nata calls out the vague “sustainability” playoff mandate as just another recycled talking point from Charlotte’s so-called “new regime.” The conversation shifts to which players the Hornets should be targeting in the 2025 NBA Draft. Nata shares why he’s not sold on players like Kasparas Jakucionis going top 5 and why Kon Knuepple might be a better fit later in the lottery. They also talk about how NIL and transfer culture may be shifting how young players approach the NBA, and what that means for teams like Charlotte looking to draft high-upside prospects with limited college success. Plus, could Danny Wolf be a steal later in the first round? And which prospect is on Nata’s "TV-smashing" no-draft list? Tune in for all that and more. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! SKIMS Shop SKIMS Mens at SKIMS.com/lockedonnba. Let them know we sent you! After you place your order, select "podcast" in the survey and select our show in the dropdown menu that follows. Hungryroot With Hungryroot, it’s like having a personal shopper and a nutritionist all in one. For a limited time, get 40% off your first box and a free item in every box for life! Just go to Hungryroot.com/lockedonnba and use code LOCKEDONNBA. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. OpenPhone Streamline and scale your customer communications with OpenPhone. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/LOCKEDONNBA. Amazon Fire TV Stick 4k Did you know your Fire TV is also an Xbox? Turn any TV into your gaming and entertainment hub with Fire TV Stick 4K devices — no console required. Head to Amazon.com/firetvlockedon to get started. Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription and compatible controller required. Upwork Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free. With Upwork, you can find specialized freelancers in marketing, development, design, and more—experts ready to help you take your business to the next level. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first...

The Hornets' front office is facing some major decisions, and Doug Branson and Walker Mehl are breaking it all down. With Joe Dumars stepping into the Pelicans’ front office, Zion Williamson may finally be on the trading block. But is his massive contract, injury history, and off-court baggage too much for Charlotte to risk? Doug and Walker debate whether Zion is worth a big swing or if it's smarter to stay the course with LaMelo and the young core. Then, it’s all eyes on Mark Williams. His exit interview was revealing—and maybe even a little tense. Doug sees a disconnect between Williams and the organization, with questions around physicality, conditioning, and role clarity. Is it time for both sides to move on? Finally, the guys dive into the Hornets' draft capital. With picks 33 and 34 in hand, could Charlotte package them to move up and snag a floor-spacing big man like Maxime Raynaud or DaRon Holmes? Doug lays out a scenario that could reshape the team’s second unit. All that, plus some light trolling of Josh Green and what Grant Williams’ locker room presence means for a team trying to set a tougher tone. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Robinhood With Robinhood Gold, you can now enjoy the VIP treatment. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. To receive 3% boost on annual IRA contributions, sign up at robinhood.com/gold. Door Dash They Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off) Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first...

In this episode of the Locked On NBA Squad Show East, hosts discuss the Eastern Conference playoffs. They debate whether Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks can upset the Pacers, with mixed opinions on the series outcome. The panel also examines the Knicks-Pistons matchup, with Kuka Hill passionately defending Detroit's recent success. The hosts analyze the play-in tournament, focusing on the Heat-Bulls game and potential upsets. They conclude by assessing the Celtics' and Cavaliers' chances as top seeds, considering factors like injuries to Jaylen Brown and the Cavs' recent shooting slump. 0:00 Intro: Eastern Conference playoff preview 5:44 Bucks vs Pacers: Can Giannis overcome? 14:06 Knicks vs Pistons: Underdog Detroit's chances 21:42 Play-in tournament: Any intrigue for viewers? 28:57 Celtics and Cavs: Confidence levels as top seeds Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 5-Hour ENERGY Head to 5-hourENERGY.com to find over 15 flavors to choose from, including Watermelon, Blue Raspberry, and Peach-Mango. Need one now? Grab a 5-hour ENERGY shot at your local grocery or convenience store—they’re everywhere! Stock up today and stay energized. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

The Hornets’ season is officially over, and that means it’s time for exit interviews—and they didn’t disappoint. On today’s episode of Locked On Hornets, Walker and Doug analyze Executive VP Jeff Peterson’s comments about the future of the franchise, including his strategic but cautious approach to building a “sustainable” winner. Doug doesn’t hold back, calling out the disconnect between the team's messaging and what long-suffering Hornets fans are craving: risk-taking and results. We also hear directly from LaMelo Ball, who stated clearly that he wants to stay in Charlotte. But does staying mean settling? Walker and Doug explore the nuance behind LaMelo’s comments, his injury-plagued seasons, and whether the Hornets are truly all-in on him as the future of the team. Finally, we dive into the latest NBA mock draft and look at potential fits like Ace Bailey, Dylan Harper, and VJ Edgecombe. Which of these young stars best matches Charlotte’s “Hornets DNA,” and could one of them shift the team’s trajectory? Plus, we discuss how Charles Lee’s culture of discipline could shape rookie development and what Brandon Miller’s “rigged” lottery joke might mean for fans holding out hope for Cooper Flagg. Subscribe, like, and share for full offseason coverage of your Charlotte Hornets. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Robinhood With Robinhood Gold, you can now enjoy the VIP treatment. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. To receive 3% boost on annual IRA contributions, sign up at robinhood.com/gold. Door Dash They Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off) Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here:...

It's over. The Charlotte Hornets’ 2024-25 season has officially wrapped, and Doug and Walker are dressed for the occasion—suiting up for what felt like a funeral for the franchise’s latest campaign. In this episode, we reflect on a third straight year of disappointment, capped by a loss to the Celtics where Tidjane Salaun struggled and fan-favorite Moussa Diabate led the team in games played… after starting the year on a two-way contract. The guys get honest about their emotional exhaustion, dive into what the end of this era means for players like LaMelo Ball and Tre Mann, and whether this might be the last we see of them in Charlotte. Charles Lee's first-year coaching report card is handed out, and his late-season technical foul earns applause as a sign of growth and passion. We also discuss what Brandon Miller’s injury-shortened season robbed the team of, how the Hornets’ culture seems to be changing under Jeff Peterson and Charles Lee, and which players—like Okogie and Diabate—deserve another shot. The team needs a major talent injection, but with the lottery a month away, the dream of Cooper Flagg lives on. All that, plus: what the Hornets can learn from serious franchises, the futility of past draft decisions, and a mock draft featuring Duke’s sharpshooter Kon Knueppel. It’s a full-on post-mortem, but with a flicker of hope for the sickos. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Robinhood With Robinhood Gold, you can now enjoy the VIP treatment. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. To receive 3% boost on annual IRA contributions, sign up at robinhood.com/gold. Door Dash They Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off) Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s...

Why do the Charlotte Hornets need Cooper Flagg so badly? Doug Branson and Walker Mehl explain why it’s not just about stats or highlight reels—it’s about belief. Cooper Flagg represents hope, accountability, and the kind of franchise-altering presence that could finally pull the Hornets out of their rebuild wilderness. Doug breaks down how past second overall picks left fans heartbroken, and why Flagg could reset expectations for ownership, players, and fans alike. Then the guys turn to Charles Lee. Should the head coach have been more vocal on the sidelines this season? With LaMelo Ball getting roughed up regularly and no technical fouls to show for it, Walker and Doug debate whether Lee’s “discipline-first” approach cost the team credibility. They contrast Lee’s style with Kenny Atkinson’s fiery ejection in Cleveland last night examining how that passion can unify a team. Plus, it’s Masters week, so in true Charlotte fashion, they dive into Hornets traditions “unlike any other.” From painful draft luck to front office buzzwords like “sustainability,” you’ll laugh, cry, and probably scream into a pillow. And yes—Doug hits the ESPN mock draft simulator and likes what he sees. Subscribe, listen, and join the sickness. It’s real. We want Flagg bad. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Robinhood With Robinhood Gold, you can now enjoy the VIP treatment. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. To receive 3% boost on annual IRA contributions, sign up at robinhood.com/gold. Door Dash They Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off) Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Monarch...

Another game, another blowout. The Charlotte Hornets fall 126-96 to the Raptors, but this one had a few silver linings—most notably, Nick Smith Jr. exploding for 28 points and 10 assists in what might have been his most complete performance yet. Doug and Walker break down how NSJ managed to shine in a game where offensive flow was nonexistent and the roster was stretched thin. They also share thoughts on why Nurkic’s old-school domination down low doesn’t make much sense for a team supposedly running a five-out look. But this episode isn’t all doom and gloom. We have a fresh mock draft on deck and a bit of lottery simulation magic—yes, Cooper Flagg to Charlotte is officially in play. With the Hornets nearly locked into a 14% chance at the No. 1 pick, the conversation shifts to how Cooper would fit with LaMelo and Brandon Miller, and what that means for the franchise moving forward. Also, remember Jared Rhoden? He came back to haunt Charlotte with a 23-point revenge game. Plus, we take a moment to salute the NBA’s elder statesmen—Garrett Temple and Taj Gibson—in a night full of hidden stories. We wrap with debate over mock draft risers like Ace Bailey and Trey Johnson, and how the Hornets might approach the 3rd overall pick if the lottery doesn't go their way. All that and more on a packed episode of Locked On Hornets. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Robinhood With Robinhood Gold, you can now enjoy the VIP treatment. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. To receive 3% boost on annual IRA contributions, sign up at robinhood.com/gold. Door Dash They Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off) Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your...

The final home game of the season turned grim for the Charlotte Hornets as a horrifying midair collision left Memphis rookie Jalen Wells with a broken wrist and a bruised jaw after a violent fall. Hosts Doug Branson and Walker Mehl break down what happened on the play involving Hornets rookie K.J. Simpson, why the contact was accidental, and how the Hornets' vets supported Simpson after a deeply emotional moment. The game itself? Another lopsided loss, 124–100, to the Grizzlies. Mark Williams struggled against Zach Edey, who dominated physically. Doug and Walker debate whether it's time to stretch Mark’s offensive game with more pick-and-pop threes—especially with the team out of contention. Elsewhere in the NBA, the guys react to the SHOCKING news that Denver has fired head coach Michael Malone and GM Calvin Booth just days before the playoffs. Doug explains why the timing speaks volumes about dysfunction and why the Hornets' new regime with Jeff Peterson and Charles Lee looks unified by comparison. Also: Doug gives out his first “NBA Draft Rose” to a rising guard in the latest lottery sim, and the guys discuss why Charles Lee deserves time—and talent—to succeed in Charlotte. A jam-packed episode with serious moments, basketball analysis, and a few laughs in between. Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… 🎧 https://linktr.ee/lockedonhornets Become an official member of the Locked On Hornets Sicko Brigade and get Hornets news, rumors and pictures of Byron Mullens sent directly to your phone via Subtext (14 Day Free Trial): https://joinsubtext.com/lockedonhornets Locked On NBA League-Wide: Every Team, Fantasy, Draft, WNBA & More 🎧 https://linktr.ee/LockedOnNBA Get Doug's gamenotes, special articles and a podcast on Hornets history at the Every Hornets Boxscore substack: everyhornetsboxscore.com Get more Walker on Wes and Walker 12-3pm on WFNZ 92.7 FM Top 35 Hornets Nicknames of All-Time According to Doug Branson: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-nicknames-in-hornets-franchise Top 35 Hornets of All-Time According to Walker Mehl: https://hornets.substack.com/p/the-top-35-players-in-hornets-history 📲 Follow Locked On Hornets on Twitter Locked On Hornets https://twitter.com/LockedOnHornets Walker Mehl https://twitter.com/WalkerMehl Doug Branson https://twitter.com/DougBransonLOH Your favorite podcast now has a newsletter! In One-stop for ultimate team and league coverage delivered right to your in box. Sign up for free now, at lockedondaily.com. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by Betterhelp. Your well-being is worth it. Visit BetterHelp.com/lockedonnba today to get 10% off your first month. Robinhood With Robinhood Gold, you can now enjoy the VIP treatment. The new Gold Standard is here with Robinhood Gold. To receive 3% boost on annual IRA contributions, sign up at robinhood.com/gold. Door Dash They Swoosh, You Save: when any player scores 50 or more points in a game during the 24/25 NBA regular season, DashPass members save 50% on an order, up to $10 off with promo code NBA50. 50% Off 1 Order (Up to $10 Off) Offer valid from 9:00 AM PT through 11:59 PM PT after a 50 point performance in any game during the NBA season on orders placed at participating merchant locations. Valid only in the United States. Maximum value of discount is $10.00. Discount applies to subtotal only; does not apply to fees, taxes, and gratuity. Not valid for pickup. Limit one per person. Not valid for the purchase of alcohol. Fees, taxes, and gratuity still apply. Must have an active DashPass account. Use promo code NBA50 to redeem. See further terms and conditions at https://drd.sh/8ONpZP/. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here:...

In this episode of the Locked On NBA Squad Show East, hosts discuss the most dangerous play-in teams in the Eastern Conference. They debate which teams could potentially upset higher seeds, with focus on the Magic, Bulls, Heat, and Hawks. The panel also explores the futures of bottom-tier teams like the Hornets, Wizards, and Nets, considering their young talent and draft prospects. The conversation shifts to the potential impact of landing the first overall pick and drafting Cooper Flagg, with speculation on how it could change the trajectory of struggling franchises. The hosts provide updates on their respective teams as the regular season winds down. 0:00 Intro: Most dangerous play-in team discussion 6:41 Bottom teams' futures: Wizards, Nets, Hornets 14:17 Impact of Cooper Flagg on lottery teams 21:59 Team updates: Pacers, Pistons, Magic, Heat 31:16 Cavs clinching top seed, Mitchell injury scare Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! 5-Hour ENERGY Head to 5-hourENERGY.com to find over 15 flavors to choose from, including Watermelon, Blue Raspberry, and Peach-Mango. Need one now? Grab a 5-hour ENERGY shot at your local grocery or convenience store—they’re everywhere! Stock up today and stay energized. WayFair After the holiday hustle, there’s nothing like giving your home a little TLC. Give your home the refresh it needs with Wayfair. Head to Wayfair.com right now. Wayfair. Every style. Every home. Prizepicks Now’s the perfect time to join. Download the app today and use code LOCKEDONNBA to get $50 instantly when you play your first $5 lineup! That’s right—no need to win to get the bonus, it’s guaranteed. PrizePicks—Run Your Game! Click Here: https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/LOCKEDONNBA Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNBA at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNBA for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime. FanDuel Right now, new customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS BETS when your first FIVE DOLLAR BET WINS! Download the app or head to FANDUEL.COM to get started. Bet with FanDuel—Official Partner of the NBA. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)